Types of Medical Records You Need in Louisiana

The SSA looks for detailed medical evidence that shows the severity of your condition and how it limits your ability to work. Important records include:

• Doctor’s treatment notes – Progress reports, test results, and ongoing treatment history.
• Hospital and clinic records – Emergency visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, and discharge summaries.
• Specialist reports – Documentation from neurologists, cardiologists, psychiatrists, or other specialists.
• Diagnostic tests and lab results – X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, blood work, or other clinical tests.
• Prescriptions and treatment history – Medications, physical therapy, mental health therapy, or rehabilitation notes.
• Functional capacity evaluations – Notes about your ability to perform daily tasks and work-related activities.

Why These Records Are So Important

The SSA doesn’t just want to see that you were diagnosed with a condition. They want proof that:

• Your condition has lasted (or is expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.
• You are unable to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to your condition.
• Medical treatment and test results support your limitations, not just your symptoms.

Without strong medical evidence, your application is likely to be denied, even if you have a serious condition.

How to Gather Your Medical Records in Louisiana

• Request records from all providers – Contact your primary doctor, hospitals, and any specialists.
• Keep copies for yourself – Even if SSA requests them, it helps to have your own set.
• Organize by date and provider – A timeline of your treatments makes your case clearer.
• Update records regularly – Ongoing treatment shows that your disability is continuous.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many Louisiana applicants are denied SSDI benefits because of errors with their medical documentation. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Only submitting a diagnosis without proof of limitations.
• Failing to provide mental health treatment records (if applicable).
• Leaving out older but relevant medical history.
• Assuming SSA will automatically collect all your records.

What If You Don’t Have Enough Records?

If the SSA finds gaps in your medical evidence, they may schedule a consultative exam with a doctor they choose. While this can help, it’s always stronger to provide your own treating physician’s records, since they know your condition best.

Louisiana Resources for Medical Records

• Local hospitals and clinics – Ochsner Health, LSU Health, Our Lady of the Lake, and other providers.
• Louisiana Disability Determination Services (DDS) – Works with SSA to review medical evidence.
• SSA Online Portal – Upload and track evidence for your claim.